Five great Smokies fall hikes

Newfound Gap to Charlies Bunion along the Appalachian Trail, 8 miles roundtrip: One of the most scenic hikes in the Smokies, and especially nice in cold weather when the humidity drops and visibility improves. Charlies Bunion is a rock outcropping with panoramic views. From the Newfound Gap parking lot, head north on the A.T.

Chimney Top Trail, 4 miles roundtrip: A short but steep hike that leads to one of the park's best views. The trailhead is off Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 411), six miles south of Sugarlands Visitor Center. This is a popular day hike, so expect a crowded parking lot on weekends.

Meigs Mountain Trail, 10 1/2 miles when combined with Jakes Creek Trail and Lumber Ridge Trail: A relatively low-elevation trail (at least for the Smokies) linking Elkmont to the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont. Park at Jakes Creek Trailhead located at the end of the Elkmont Road. After .4 miles, you'll hit Meigs Mountain Trail. Follow it to the Lumber Ridge Trail, which leads to Tremont. Be advised: This hike includes almost a dozen stream crossings, only one of which (Jakes Creek) offers a foot bridge.

Deep Creek Loop, 4 1/2 miles: Located near Bryson City, N.C., this popular loop trail features two waterfalls, Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls. Start at the gravel parking lot at the Deep Creek Trailhead. From there, hike about 200 yards down the road to the red gate, where the Deep Creek Trail begins. At .2 miles, you'll come to Tom Branch Falls.

Abrams Falls, 5 miles: Another moderately difficult waterfall hike. To reach the trailhead, go 4.9 miles on the Cades Cove Loop Road, cross Abrams Creek and turn right onto the gravel road. It's another half-mile to the parking area. Abrams Falls is 20 feet high and usually has ample volume during the winter.

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